Sorry, Jeans, But These Summer-Ready Skirt Outfits Are All I Want to Wear Right Now

We're a few weeks into summer weather (finally!), and if you're anything like me, a sartorial refresh is due. Since the temperatures climbed past 20 degrees at the start of June, I've been trying to stay cool by living in the breeziest pieces in my wardrobe. If an item I own is made of linen or features short sleeves, you bet it's become my go-to. But as someone who has a low tolerance for the heat (not that I'm complaining—keep the sun coming!), I've definitely been prioritising comfort over style lately, and I want to achieve both as we head into July.

So, I'm throwing myself in the deep end and trying out something pretty new to me: skirts. While wide-leg trousers and jeans populate the bulk of our bottoms-focused stories, we're also keenly aware that skirts have become a fashion crowd favourite over the past year. Personally, I've been hesitant to jump on board with the various skirt trends—most recently, denim maxis and crochet midis have swarmed our Instagram feeds—because I associate this clothing category with my teens, which I spent pulling down too-short H&M tube skirts on the regular. At this point, though, I've spotted so many chic skirt outfits that I can no longer resist.

They're also a sophisticated solution to the challenges of heatwave dressing. That's why influencers like Monikh Dale, Lucy Williams and Who What Wear editor Aniyah Morina (among many, many others) are all turning to skirts to keep them looking polished despite the humid climes. See their effortless looks below, then shop the key pieces you'll need to re-create them.

1. Baby Tee + Linen Skirt + Loafers

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(Image credit: @aniyahmorinia)

Style Notes: Use a shrunken tee to balance out the proportions of a longline skirt, then go the unexpected route with a pair of chunky loafers (though sandals will also work).

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2. Bright Tank Top + Denim Skirt + Chunky Sandals

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(Image credit: @taffymsipa)

Style Notes: We fell back in love with denim skirts in 2022, and our feelings are just as strong two years on. As this is a heavy fabrication, keep things light and bright on the top half with a colour-pop tank.

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3. Co-Ord + Flip-Flops

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(Image credit: @monikh)

Style Notes: My current summer wish list is predominantly made up of lightweight co-ords. A complete skirt outfit, ready to go!

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4. Waistcoat + Mini + Fisherman Sandals

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(Image credit: @marina_torres)

Style Notes: For super hot days, there's no better option than a mini skirt. Pair it with a waistcoat and some classic fisherman sandals.

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5. Relaxed Shirt + Crochet Skirt + Flat Sandals

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(Image credit: @emmahoareau)

Style Notes: Whether you're camping at a festival or jetting off to a tropical paradise, a crochet skirt definitely deserves a place in your summer roster.

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6. Bandeau Top + Maxi Skirt

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(Image credit: @jeannine.roxas)

Style Notes: When trying out the maxi skirt trend, juxtapose the voluminous shape with a fitted bandeau top. Take note from Jeannine and pull your hair up to let the outfit shine.

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7. Stripe Shirt + Silk Slip Skirt

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(Image credit: @andi_mun)

Style Notes: A slip skirt is a year-round essential, but for summer, opt for a lighter shade such as white or pale yellow. Pair with a classic stripe shirt and flip-flops for a effortlessly stylish look.

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8. Short-Sleeve Shirt + Bikini Top + Sarong Skirt

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(Image credit: @lucywilliams02)

Style Notes: For a beach day, a sarong skirt is the ultimate bikini cover-up. We'll be teaming ours with a billowy short-sleeved shirt, like Lucy.

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9. Silk Shirt + Pleated Skirt + Trainers

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(Image credit: @deborabrosa)

Style Notes: This ensemble gives me "summer in the Hamptons" / tenniscore vibes, and I'm here for it. By pairing pieces in similar tones, you'll achieve a more expensive and cohesive look.

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Freelance Fashion Editor

Bébhinn Campbell is an Edinburgh-based fashion and lifestyle writer and editor. She started her first blog at age 14 and went on to intern at print and digital publications in Berlin and London, including Dazed & Confused and Indie magazine.

A job at a fashion startup took Bébhinn from Ireland to Scotland in 2019, where she now works as a freelance journalist and copywriter covering everything from travel and interiors to styling advice. As a contributor to Who What Wear, Bébhinn always keeps her eyes peeled for emerging trends and looks worth writing about. She prides herself on her ability to cut through the noise and identify solid investment buys, exciting new brands and fresh takes on classic design.

In her spare time, Bébhinn enjoys perusing Edinburgh’s best vintage shops, working through her out-of-control book collection and watching dog reels on Instagram.